Rangers supporters got what they asked for when Niko Katic made the starting XI against Livingston on Sunday. And by appearing in a pre-match press conference with Steven Gerrard yesterday, does it hint he’s set to stay in it?
Previewing the Scottish Cup tie with Cowdenbeath, the Croatian was invited to speak alongside Gerrard.
Previously, it seemed Katic had been frozen out at the club. But for now, he’s just happy to have helped secure three points.
“It’s really good to be there [in the starting lineup] and get the win with the guys,” said Katic. “It took a long time but as the manager said I was working hard and preparing myself to get a chance.
“I am happy to get a clean sheet and get three points and stay in the race for first place.”
Gerrard impressed by Katic since turn of the year
Rangers Manager Steven Gerrard also gave a glowing assessment of the defender. The Liverpool legend spoke about the “commanding” performances Niko Katic put in at the beginning of the season.
“I thought it was a very strong, commanding performance from Niko,” said Gerrard. “It was a similar performance to the run of games he had at the start of the season when he was very commanding and in top form.
“He’s come back after the winter break and worked ever so hard and really pushed me into playing. I have him an opportunity at the weekend and he grabbed it with both hands.”
All the sounds seem good for the defender who Gerrard signed in the Summer. He formed a formidable partnership with Connor Goldson at the beginning of the season. Goldson remains out but Gerrard claims “he’s not too far away”.
Couple that with his presence in this press conference and Gerrard’s comments, and it appears the Croat is very much back in the fold at Ibrox.
